Song meaning of Plastic Gangsters by The 4-Skins

The lyrics of "Plastic Gangsters" by The 4-Skins convey a message about the insecurity and desire for status among individuals who try to embody a tough, gangster persona, but ultimately fall short. The song's narrator, hailing from south London, describes his attempts to fit in with his friends by wearing a cheap crombie coat and going to the pub.

However, he realizes that he is seen as a fake or "plastic" gangster, as indicated by the derogatory term "crown and anchor" used to mock him. The narrator's material possessions, such as a cheap chain and a car, also symbolize his lack of genuine gangster identity. The chain, in contrast to his friends' inherited ones, highlights his inferiority and inability to obtain true status.

Moreover, the narrator's experiences with women reflect his failure to find respect and validation. His encounter with a woman ends with her getting sick, emphasizing the superficial nature of his connections. He then seeks solace in watching the show "Minders" and learning Cockney rhyming slang, attempting to compensate for his lack of authenticity by adopting the language and mannerisms of an iconic gangster character.

Overall, the lyrics of "Plastic Gangsters" critique the facade and imitation prevalent in a certain social group, highlighting the emptiness and superficiality of trying to fit into a gangster persona without genuine substance or understanding of its culture. The song encourages listeners to reflect on the importance of authenticity and self-acceptance rather than striving for a manufactured identity.